Chicken Fried Steak: A Delicious Southern Classic Recipe You Must Try

Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that brings comfort and joy to dinner tables across the United States. This dish, which features tenderized beef steak coated in a crispy, golden-brown batter, is often served with creamy gravy, making it a hearty meal that warms the soul. The origins of Chicken Fried Steak can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was influenced by German and Austrian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to America. Over the years, it has evolved into a staple of Southern cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

People adore Chicken Fried Steak not only for its delicious taste but also for its convenience; it’s a dish that can be prepared relatively quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of crispy breading and tender meat, paired with a luscious gravy, creates a delightful experience that keeps diners coming back for more. Whether served with mashed potatoes or a side of greens, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-ounce) beef cube steaks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup milk (for gravy)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for gravy)

Preparing the Steak

1. Start by tenderizing the cube steaks. Place each steak between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the steaks to about 1/2 inch thick. This will help to break down the fibers and make the meat more tender.
2. Once tenderized, season both sides of the steaks with salt and black pepper. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the seasoning.

Preparing the Breading Station

1. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. In another shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk until well combined. This will be your egg wash.
3. Set up your breading station by placing the seasoned flour mixture, the egg wash, and a clean plate or baking sheet in a row.

Breading the Steaks

1. Take one cube steak and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Next, dip the floured steak into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated.
3. Return the steak to the seasoned flour and dredge it again, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. Place the breaded steak on the clean plate or baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the cube steaks.

Cooking the Steaks

1. In a large skillet or frying pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of flour into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
2. Carefully place the breaded cube steaks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
3. Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the steaks gently to avoid breaking the breading.
4. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you cook the remaining steaks.

Making the Gravy

1. After all the steaks are cooked and resting, carefully pour out most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2-3 tablespoons in the pan. Be cautious as the oil will be hot.
2. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour into the hot oil and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden brown color. This will help to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If the gravy is too thick, you can add

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a classic Southern comfort food that is both hearty and satisfying. The crispy, golden-brown coating paired with the tender, juicy meat creates a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you serve it with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, or a side of collard greens, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. For those looking to put a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding spices to the breading for an extra kick, or try substituting the chicken with pork or even a plant-based alternative for a unique spin. You can also experiment with different gravies, such as a spicy jalapeño gravy or a rich mushroom sauce, to elevate the dish even further. We encourage you to try this Chicken Fried Steak recipe in your own kitchen and share your experience with us! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is approachable and rewarding. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media, tagging us so we can see your delicious results. Dive into this culinary adventure and enjoy every bite of this classic comfort food!

Print